NextBillion - An Initiative of the William Davidson Institute at the University of Michigan

When I started thinking about a manifesto for Disrupting Global Food Politics, I got really excited. For those of you who don’t know me or Food Tank, I am usually on stage as a moderator or interviewer. I ask other people their deepest thoughts about food systems change and what it will take to transform our agricultural systems.

Writing this has made me think about how, having had the privilege to talk with so many experts—from around the world and with a wide range of interests—has perhaps given me a unique vantage point on some of the important, overarching issues we face today. So, I want to share the five things that I think will contribute to more environmentally sustainable, economically viable, and socially just food and agriculture systems.

In true manifesto style, I have a list of not exactly demands, but necessary components to help us all save the world. And each has a call to action.

First, invest in women in agriculture.

Globally, women account for approximately 43 percent of the agricultural labor force and in some countries, they make up nearly 70 percent of all farmers. Universally, women are not allowed access to the same resources and respect as their male counterparts.

Photo courtesy of sasint.